The courtyard at the Kings Arms Hotel in Keswick town centre has undergone a £10,000 revamp.
The open-air area just off Market Square now has new lighting and new parasols and has been resurfaced to ensure guests enjoy their food and drink in spruced-up surroundings, whatever the weather.
The Kings Arms reopened on Monday after the Government’s lockdown restrictions were eased.
The Kings Arms’ revamped courtyard has been a little sun trap – if a little chilly because of this week’s weather – making it an ideal place to enjoy a beer and a burger since Monday. Even when wet, the awnings will provide protection to allow visitors to drink and dine al fresco.
Outdoor TVs are also in use, screening live sport, making it the perfect place to enjoy a sociable outdoor visit for everything from early morning coffees to lunches, and afternoon snacks through to early-evening dining as well as beer and cocktails. It is walk-in only, with no reservations.
But no hotels are allowed to offer overnight accommodation until May 17 – and with pubs also unable to serve customers indoors, the emphasis has switched to al fresco service.
The hotel and pub is one of six hospitality venues owned by Lake District Hotels.
The company’s The Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa in Borrowdale also reopened for outdoor dining and drinks on Monday for outdoor service, along with the Inn on the Lake at Ullswater where there is a marquee.
The Graves family-run company’s other businesses: the Skiddaw Hotel and Inn on the Square, both in Market Square, and the Borrowdale Hotel, in Borrowdale, will remain closed until May 17.
The Falls Spa at the Lodore Hotel’s 40-acre location is offering limited facilities, including the use of a gazebo for outdoor refreshments, in line with current government restrictions.
But a significant change sees its 16-metre infinity edge vitality pool become available for two-hour slots to non-residents for the first time.
Pool access alone has never been available to guests and valued customers will also be able to enjoy their first taste of lockdown freedom in the comfort of a heated hydrotherapy pool, layered with underwater bubble loungers and hydromassage neck jets.
The Lodore’s champagne bar and treatment rooms have also reopened and all are available to book. Saunas and steam rooms will remain closed until May 17.
All six hotels are set to reopen completely on May 17 to residents and non-residents whether they wish to stay or enjoy a meal indoors at their restaurants.
